The Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship at Chatham House is a prestigious opportunity designed for early-to-mid-career professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in international affairs, leadership, and policy research. This fully funded 10-month fellowship provides an immersive experience at Chatham House, London, one of the world’s leading independent policy institutes.
The fellowship allows professionals from diverse backgrounds, including academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, and media, to develop their independent research projects while contributing to Chatham House’s ongoing research initiatives. Participants also undergo rigorous leadership training through the Leadership Masterclass Programme, designed to equip them with practical skills, global insights, and strategic thinking capabilities. Fellows receive financial support, including a monthly stipend of £2,365, coverage for relocation expenses, visa support, and research funding.
This program is ideal for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of global challenges, enhance their policy impact, and expand their professional networks. Fellows will be part of a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary environment where they engage with policymakers, researchers, and global leaders.
Quick Overview of Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship 2025-2026
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institution: Chatham House, London
- Application Deadline: March 19, 2025
- Fellowship Duration: October 2025 – July 2026 (10 months)
- Value: Fully funded (stipend, relocation, visa, research funding)
- Eligibility: Open to international early-to-mid-career professionals
Perks of the Queen Elizabeth II Academy Fellowships
- Monthly stipend of £2,365 to cover living expenses.
- Relocation support, including flights, visas, and initial accommodation costs.
- Healthcare coverage through the UK’s Immigration Healthcare Surcharge.
- Research funding for fieldwork, publications, and conference participation.
- Full access to Chatham House’s research and leadership training.
- Five-year Chatham House membership upon successful completion.
- Opportunities to engage with global policymakers and experts.
Benefits of the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship
- Gain firsthand experience working in one of the world’s leading policy institutes.
- Improve leadership, research, and communication skills.
- Connect with policymakers, academics, and professionals in international affairs.
- Receive financial support covering accommodation, travel, and research expenses.
- Enhance career prospects through mentoring, media training, and policy impact workshops.
- Engage in interdisciplinary discussions and explore global challenges.
Eligibility Criteria of the Fully Funded Fellowship in the UK
- Open to applicants from all nationalities.
- Must hold a completed BA degree or equivalent.
- Should have experience conducting independent research.
- Applicants must be at the early to mid-stage of their career.
- Applicants should come from academia, NGOs, business, government, civil society, or media backgrounds.
- Must have a strong interest in international affairs and align with Chatham House’s mission.
- Must demonstrate proven leadership experience or potential.
- Proficiency in English is required.
Important Dates of the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship
- Application Period: February 28 – March 19, 2025
- Shortlisting Process: April 2025
- Interviews (via Zoom): May 2025
- Final Selection Notification: June 2025
- Fellowship Duration: October 2025 – July 2026
How to Apply to the Chatham House Fellowship in London
- Complete the Online Application
- Prepare Required Documents
- Updated CV/Résumé.
- Names and contact details of two referees.
- The research proposal aligned with Chatham House’s research themes.
- Ensure all documents are uploaded before March 19, 2025.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview.
- Final selections will be announced in June 2025.
Required Documents for the Richard and Susan Hayden Academy Fellowship
- CV/Résumé detailing academic and professional experience.
- Two references from academic or professional contacts.
- Research Proposal relevant to Chatham House’s focus areas.
- Proof of English Proficiency (if required).
Structure of the Fully Funded Global Leadershi[ Fellowships in the UK
The 10-month fellowship is divided into three key areas:
- Personal Research Project (60%) – Fellows conduct independent research with guidance from a Chatham House expert.
- Contribution to Chatham House Research (20%) – Fellows engage in ongoing projects, contributing to the institution’s global policy work.
- Leadership Masterclass Programme (20%) – Fellows participate in workshops, discussions, and mentorship sessions focused on leadership development.
Leadership Masterclass Fellowship Highlights
- Induction Week: A five-day intensive training on leadership and policy research.
- Thematic Sessions: Discussions on global challenges with policy experts.
- Leadership Skills Workshops: Covering policy impact, crisis management, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement.
- Media Training: Mock interviews and feedback sessions on public communication.
- Career Mentoring: Personalized coaching for career growth.
- Research Presentations: Fellows present their work for peer review.
Additional Information
- Fellows must work full-time on their research project at Chatham House.
- Hybrid work options are available, but fellows must spend at least two days per week in London.
- No concurrent work or study is allowed during the fellowship.
For further inquiries, visit the official Chatham House website.
